'high-ranking' originates from the combination of 'high' and 'rank,' where 'high' meant 'elevated' and 'rank' referred to 'position or status.'

'high-ranking' evolved from the Old English word 'hēah' for 'high' and the Old French word 'renc' for 'rank,' eventually forming the modern English term 'high-ranking.'

Initially, it meant 'elevated position,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.